13:30 - 13:45

New tools to study respiratory viruses 

Nora Gerhards, Researcher virology

 

How does a virus enter the airways, and how do host cells respond to infection? Can this explain why some animals get sicker than others? And what about newly emerging viruses, could they infect our farm animals and eventually pose a risk to humans? Researchers at HMI and WBVR have developed new cell culture models to study respiratory pathogens. They are growing airway epithelium in the laboratory from adult stem cells obtained from different animal species, which they use to investigate pathogens faster and better, thereby helping prevent major disease outbreaks. These cell cultures open new doors to study existing and new respiratory viruses and contribute to reducing animal testing.

 

  
 

14:15 - 14:30

The perfect fish does not exist, until we breed for it

Yuuko Xue, PhD Animal Breeding and Genomics

 

Looks matter when it comes to food. Exterior aesthetic can shape customers’ preference. But how do we find that fish that match everyone’s taste? Yuuko Xue will take us to explore the interface of phenotypes and quantitative genetics, where lies the possibility of breeding seabream for its physical appeal using images and machine learning. Together we will also visualize this journey, step by step, on how we discover the perfect fish.

 

15:00 - 15:15

From Barnyard to Backyard: Addressing Genetic Defects in Animals

Martijn Derks, Lecturer Animal Breeding and Genomics

The hidden world of genetic defects in our farm and companion animals reveals both pressing challenges and exciting possibilities to improve welfare. Some genetic defects remain hidden within animal populations and can arise from inbreeding or the extensive use of popular sires. These defects can lead to a variety of health issues, from minor physical abnormalities to severe conditions causing early lethality. Some genetic defects arise from selective breeding practices aimed at enhancing desirable traits, inadvertently increasing the frequency of harmful alleles. Unfortunately, many defects remain unnoticed due to poor registration of genetic data or phenotypes. Therefore, addressing genetic defects requires a multifaceted approach: improved genetic screening, and responsible breeding practices. Discover the untold stories behind genetic defects and their surprising implications for medical science.
 

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